Reflections on My Inaugural Year in Materials Science and Engineering
Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was enveloped in nerves, uncertainty, and a significant amount of trepidation. I was on the brink of embarking on my journey as a first-year student in the Materials Science and Engineering MEng program at Imperial College London. Being someone who has generally been quite shy and introverted, plunging into university life felt daunting. Now, reflecting on the past educational year, I recognize it as a period of substantial personal development, challenges, and remarkable experiences. So, what insights have I gained over the last year, and what is my current stance?
One of the foremost challenges I encountered initially was forming friendships. It’s one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an aspiring student reading this, it may be a concern for you as well. On move-in day, just prior to the beginning of the term, I was so apprehensive that I spent the entire day in my room, too uneasy to introduce myself to anyone. Fast forward to now, I can state with confidence that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had—people who feel like a second family. What was helpful? Simply initiating small conversations with others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. The vital lesson here: take that initial step, even if it feels intimidating. And remember, you don’t need to be anyone but your authentic self. With such a diverse community of students, you’re bound to meet individuals who share your interests and values.
Another significant adjustment was the academic workload and the intricacy of the course material. The transition from A-levels to university was considerable, and the shift from first to second term introduced an even steeper learning curve. It’s easy to feel as if you’re lagging behind when you observe others studying with confidence. However, one of the most critical realizations I had is that everyone encounters difficulties at some point. If you’re confused or having a hard time, chances are that others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from peers or faculty. Learning to request help is one of the most essential skills you can cultivate in your first year.
On the subject of support, I can’t emphasize enough the positive experiences with the staff in the Materials department. They sincerely care about our achievements and well-being, and they’re always receptive to our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support available until later in the year, and I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. One bold move I made early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to personally connect with staff members, which proved to be incredibly advantageous. There are numerous ways to foster relationships with faculty, and doing so can significantly enrich your university experience. The primary takeaway? Leverage the support systems surrounding you—you can never receive too much assistance.
In summary, this year has taught me that the fears and anxieties I experienced before and during university were frequently unfounded. With the appropriate backing from both faculty and fellow students, those emotions became manageable. I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly alone, and that it’s feasible to discover joy even amid the stresses of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London